Unemployment

When your contract with Leiden University ends, you may be entitled to unemployment benefits under the Unemployment Act (Werkloosheidswet, WW). You may also be eligible for supplementary unemployment benefits (Bovenwettelijke werkloosheidsuitkering, BWNU).

Finding a new job

You can contact your HR adviser for advice on finding a new job.

You can also make use of our Career Advice Service for career advice, coaching programmes or customised training.

Outside the University, the UWV offers support in employment and reintegration via the werk.nl website.

The UWV advises you to apply for unemployment benefits (WW) one week before your last working day. Make sure you apply for the benefits no later than one week after your last working day, otherwise you may receive lower benefits for a while. See werk.nl to find out how to apply for unemployment benefits (WW).

Your duties

From the moment you apply for WW or BWNU unemployment benefits, you have to meet a number of requirements:

Best effort requirement

You have to do everything in your power to find a new job. In addition, you have to accept matching and after six months generally acceptable work.

Job search requirement

You have to send out at least one job application a week. To this end you are required to use the workbook on the UWV site. We advise you to keep all your job application letters and other documents in case you are subjected to a check by the UWV or Visma Idella.

Information requirement

If something changes in your personal situation, you have to inform the UWV and/or Visma Idella. Changes include moving house, holidays, pregnancy, and of course the fact that you have found a new job.

The duties of the University

Leiden University, too, must make an effort to support you in finding a new job. For example by offering guidance, training and retraining. Or by pointing out vacancies within the University.

More information

If you have any questions about your current or upcoming unemployment and reintegration, please contact your HR adviser.